The United States has approved a nearly $2 billion arms sale to Taiwan, including two radar upgrade packages, and for the first time ever, an advanced surface-to-air missile system that has been battle-tested in Ukraine.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced the deal on Oct. 25, marking the largest single military sale to Taiwan during President Joe Biden’s administration and the 17th overall since 2021.
“This proposed sale serves U.S. national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipient’s continuing efforts to modernize its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability,” the DSCA said in a statement, adding that the deal would contribute to regional military balance and ensure interoperability between U.S. and Taiwanese forces.
Congress has been notified of the proposed sale, consistent with the Taiwan Relations Act, which guides arms sales to Taiwan. While the United States ended formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1979 and switched recognition to Beijing under its One China policy, Washington has maintained a robust unofficial relationship with Taipei and has pledged to provide it with the arms necessary to defend itself.
The proposed arms sale, which Congress has 30 days to review before it becomes final, consists of three components: the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS), valued at $1.16 billion, and two radar systems (AN/TPS-77 and AN/TPS-78), which account for $828 million. […]
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